That way all of your transportation is taken care of. Is koko head climb still open? We dont recommend doing this, though. After your hike, you can take a well-deserved break at one of the many nearby attractions. Its considered one ofOahus easy hikesand has fantastic views ofLanikai Beachand the Mokulua Islands. Usually there are lots of other hikers coming and going, so its easy to find the trailhead by following the other hikers. Overall, theyre both great hikes if you have time! One of my favorite things about this hike is that there is only one way up and one way down. There used to be a bus stop on the main road right in front of the road that leads to . The Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail is a gentle hike with spectacular views of Oahu's southeast coastline, including Koko Crater and Koko Head. They are devoted mainly to different types of cacti and succulents and are said to be quite photogenic. Parking is available at the Koko Head District Park. All in all, the total calorie burn on the Koko Crater trail is somewhere in the realm of 400 calories (roundtrip). Until next time, Aloha, and happy hiking on Oahu! Most of all, be safe, take pictures, make some unique memories, and have a great, adventurous day of fun in the sun! Honolulu House w/Shared Pool by Koko Crater! The hike starts at the Koko Head District Park. Even if you arent the worlds greatest athlete, and are taking your time, drinking water, and stopping often, going up is less than an hour. The Koko Head Trail, officially known as Koko Crater Tramway, is one of thebest hikes on Oahu. Pro tip: there is a public toilet at the car park with a water fountain to refill your water bottle. You should see the trailhead about 100 yards from the parking lot. However, the Koko HeadDistrict Park parking lot hours are 6:30 am till 11:00 pm. Mahalo! Here, well go over what to expect on the trail, answer some FAQs, what to bring, some tips for making your hike more enjoyable and safe, and so much more. While in the area, you can include many other side trips to your hike. However, if you're up to the challenge it is worth the effort to reach the Koko Head Crater summit. Stairs. Old railway track that was used to transport amo/equipment up the mountain offers the uniqueness. You dont have to be superfit to hike it, but we recommend being in decent shape. Yes, the Koko Head stairs are 100 percent legal and many people hike them every day. You have reached the top! Diamond Head is easier and has different views from Koko Head, but theyre both nice hikes. Check out this 2.6-km out-and-back trail near Honolulu, Oahu. Makapuu Lighthouse Trail. Web Visit website. This steep climb consists of 1,000+ steps along an abandoned railroad track that runs to the top of Koko Crater. Lanikai Pillbox: The Pillbox Hikeis one of my favorite hikes on Oahu. According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Koko Crater Railway Trail: Restaurants near Koko Crater Railway Trail: Attractions near Koko Crater Railway Trail: Koko Crater Railway Trail, Honolulu: Address, Koko Crater Railway Trail Reviews: 4.5/5. Subscribe to my newsletter for the latest blog posts, tips, & travel guides. Definitely recommend if youre a good hiker. Saturday!! At the top of the cone lie the remains of a WW2 era pillbox which was built as munitions storage and a lookout point for further attacks. The bridge is scarily degraded wood - take Murphys pass, If I lived in the vicinity, would do this at least once a fortnight for fitness. The military later used the summit of the Koko Head crater in World War II. While this hike will test your endurance, you will be rewarding with some of the best views of the island. They provide freshfruitand water, a professional tour guide, and theyll even take photos for you. It is a feat that . Also known as the "Koko Head Stairs," this abandoned WWII railway track is a steep and challenging hiking trail with over 1,000 steps (but worth it for the panoramic views). We usually park on the side of the road by the tennis court. Need water and a hat, need good grippy shoes. Overall, its not too difficult, but something to keep in mind. This can be tricky, as there is nothing between the ties and the ground below. If you decide to go there after the hike note that there's a US$7.50 entrance fee to the reserve. the entire park along with Koko Head Shooting Complex will be off . See options All photos (2,608) Its an adventure in itself. The hike isnt super long. For the history buffs out there, the hike has great significance regarding the second World War. I hiked this on 09/08 + other trails during my first visit to Hawai'i & posted a vlog! We created this guide to ensure you have the best hiking experience. HAWAII KAI, Hawaii (KHON2) A man going up the Koko Crater Stairs does not usually make the news, but 40 times in a row? Top ways to experience Koko Crater Railway Trail, Hiking ShuttleMakapu'u Lighthouse Trail or Diamond Head, Family-Friendly Private Circle Island Tour of Oahu, Amazing Oahu Adventure Bundle: 6 Epic Self-Guided Audio Tours, Oahu South Shore GPS Driving Beaches and Hiking Tour, Full Day Tour to Discover the Journey of Obama in Hawaii, Doors-Off Oahu Circle Island Experience from Kapolei. When you arrive at the Koko Head parking lot, its a little confusing to find the trailhead at first. The hiking trail is actually railroad track initially laid down by the U.S. Army shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor. The views are fantastic, and its relatively easy and paved all the way. Absolutely spectacular. Taka e left onto Koko Head District Park where you'll find parking lots and a trailhead. Its tough to get lost, so that makes things easier. For most people, it will probably take about 1-2 hours roundtrip, depending on your pace. This is your chance to walk along the rim of an extinct volcano crater! Diamond Head Hours. Luckily for Waikiki vacationers, taking in the scenery from the top of this dormant volcano is just a short drive and day hike away. Steep, no-shade, climb to the top of Koko Head Crater that includes spectacular panoramic views of the east Honolulu shoreline, Hanauma Bay, and parts of Moloka'i. Koko Head Trail is open all year and one of those trails to hike anytime. A small overstep could cause significant injury. Meeting your fellow hikers could be a great way to make a local connection or an international acquaintance. When people get hurt on the Koko Crater trail, usually its because they were rushing back down the stairs and slipped. Bring lots of water and a hat too. Hours: 6 AM - 6 PM (last entry 4 PM) Parking Fee: $10 per car. If you plan to hike before sunrise, you need to figure out parking arrangements and give yourself enough time to get there. This is the start of the stairway hike. Yes, Koko Head is open! The Start of the Trail. Once you make it through this area, it gets even steeper, but you are now more than halfway there. Ive done both hikes many times over the years, and I have to say there is really no comparison in terms of difficulty. What restaurants are near Koko Crater Railway Trail? Diamondhead climb better option for those not prepared for an adventurous climb. Great workout with an awesome view. Before it was a trail, there used to be a railway. -The road to the parking lot is usually closed from the Highway and you have to go through residential area (west side) to park. It took us about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete. The Koko Head sunrise is at least as popular as sunset, and the views of Oahu island are just as stellar. Visitors can drive around the crater to the opposite side to access the gardens. Ultimately, take care and only do what you are comfortable with. Koko Head History. The site has had many functions until it was finally passed onto the City of Honolulu and became Koko Head Regional Park in 1966. Waikiki 2020 Best Tips & Restaurant Favorites. You get panoramic views of Hawaii Kai and Hanauma Bay below, and you can even faintly make out Diamond Head and the Honolulu cityscape in the distance. This is a relatively quick hike contingent on fitness level. There is ~50ft where there is no ground under the steps. Great medium hike, a lot of steps, pretty well maintained. Additional Things to Know/ Tips about Koko Head. Below are some FAQs regarding hiking the Koko Hea: We recommend wearing proper hiking shoes or trail shoes to protect your feet. 854 reviews of Koko Crater Trail "Stairway to heaven (or railway to heaven). A non-profit volunteer group called Kokonut Koalition has been formed to maintain the trail and protect it from being closed by the Hawaiian government. You can easily bypass the scary bridge section by walking through a clearing in the foliage to the right of the path. The hike is open from 6:00 am to 4:00 pm daily. Directions: The trailhead is located at the end of Manoa Road adjacent to the Lyon Arboretum. The Koko Head hike is open at all hours more or less. 360 degrees from the top, and it will give you a work out alright! Because the hike is quite short, and round-trip time averages an hour and a half, food is optional. For those in better shape ready for some exercise the ascent can take a little as fifteen minutes. The trailhead and trail are located within Koko Head District Park at 7602, 7604 Koko Head Park Rd, Honolulu, HI, 96825 for those using GPS to find your way. Going down can be challenging, and your footing will be critical. Koko Head and Diamond Head are both extinct volcano craters, and you can see old World War II military bunkers (pillboxes) at the top of either summit. Additionally, the hike is on the dry side of the slope, and it totally exposed to the sun with little to no shade. Normally people hike to the arch on a short, easy trail that starts from the main coastal road by Halona Beach Cove, but you can also reach the arch from Koko Head via the Crater Rim trail. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Morning and evening are both great times to hike Koko Head, and if you plan it right you can even see the sunrise or sunset, which are both spectacular! A popular hike, the Koko Crater Trail is not going to be lonely, as it attracts a number of visitors most days. If course its also possible to go faster if youre super fit, and Ive heard of people running to the top of the Koko Stairs in less than 10 minutes. Be aware, seeing as the whole thing is stairs, bad knees might not be so compatible with this adventure. why is there many pairs of sneakers on the telephone line when you start the koko crater railway trail? Once you reach the peak, you will be greeted with cool breezes, shade trees, and stunning views. The technical term is dormant tuff cone volcano, which basically means that while it hadnt erupted for a few thousand years when it did, the cone and crater were formed by ash and debris compacting into rock over time. The trail felt moderate to me. Gates close at 6:00 pm, so make sure to be out of the park before this time. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. My partner and I made the mistake of tackling this as our first trail soon after arriving to Hawaii from Miami, where elevation is -7 ! To get to the trailhead, you can follow the path behind the baseball diamond near the parking lot. Its fun to race to the top of the stairs, but theres really no reason to race down to the bottom. This is the most touristy hike as it is very close to Waikiki, but has a great view. Ive done this hike almost a dozen times, usually at sunset, and its always such a great show. We do not recommend hiking the Koko Head Trail with children as it is challenging. Learn about the best time to visit Oahu . I am clumsy to say the least is the hike safe? See this map in google maps. Ill share more details on the Koko Crater Rim trail later in this guide. We recommend going early in the morning, before 10:00 am or after 4:00 pm, to avoid the crowds. The Diamond Head hike Hawaii is a must-do. However, if youre up to the challenge it is worth the effort to reach the Koko Head Crater summit. Where is a waterfall on this hike? Its not really an official trail so its open all the time. If you are apprehensive, just take it slow :), Bodies of Water Nature & Wildlife Areas, Points of Interest & Landmarks Scenic Drives. The property below Koko Crater is now known as Koko Head Regional Park. The "bypass trail" to get past this requires you to use a rope to help yourself up the mountain. In my opinion, I think it tops the famous Lanikai Pillbox Hike and the Koko Head Hike in terms of traffic. Turn around and look at the amazing view towards the beach and Honolulu. The last eruption of the Koko Head Crater is estimated 7000 years ago. Affiliate Disclosures Privacy Policy Terms Of Use After the bridge, you will get glimpses of the view to come, including Hanauma Bay and Hawaii Kai. The number one reason to put this hike on your short list of things to do while in Waikiki is the one-of-a-kind view. 380 reviews of Koko Head District Park "Love this hike. From the summit of Koko Head Crater is easy to recognise the nearby Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve, which is stunning. If you are not the average hiker, you can attempt the stairs in the early morning or night darkness . Our love for Hawaii draws us to the islands at least a few times a year. Small section towards the top without ground coverage - take Murphy's bypass to avoid this (look for sign). The Koko Head Trail is a must-see for anyone visiting Oahu. The Koko Head Trail, officially known as Koko Crater Tramway, is one of the best hikes on Oahu. Stairway to Heaven Koko Head Crater Trail is a 1.8 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Honolulu, Hawaii that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as difficult. The stairs are challenging in the heat, but it's worth it. This is vacation, not a race, and visitors of every fitness level make this hike frequently. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. We've updated both travel guides with a lot of new great information for potential visitors (and those who've been a time or two as well). HIKE TO THE TOP: start behind the Hawaii Job Corps Training Center across from Hanauma Bay - follow the road past the rifle range and park at the Training Center. Koko Crater was formed by the same series of volcanic eruptions in Hawaii that created Diamond Head, but nowadays its dormant and the last activity is believed to have been at least 7,000 years ago. Look for the signs to the right, and it will take you around. Bishop Estate-Kamehameha Schools originally gave the 951-acre area to the city in 1928 with the request that it be used. After spending some time at the second peak, its time to head back down on the same trail you hiked up. I. A relic of World War II, the military constructed Koko Head Railway to transport supplies and soldiers. S pu andare anche di notte oppure ha orari di chiusura? Diamond Head . Improve this listing Tours & experiences Explore different ways to experience this place. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Koko Head was formed over 10,000 years ago by secondary volcanic eruptions of the Koolau Range. There is a bus stop near Koko Marina Center. The Koko Head District Park is open from 4 am until . If you dont have a rental car and dont feel like figuring out how to use the bus, there are also Koko Head tours like this one where theyll drop you off at the trail and then pick you up when youre finished hiking. Bring sun protection, as it can get hot during the day! We have since stuck to hiking the trail for sunrise and have never looked back. You will see multiple people (most-likely locals) hike this trail without shoes, but I would not do it myself. The pillboxes are incredible as well. There is also a railway bridge halfway up the tracks spanning a ravine, which is scary if you fear heights. It was not so packed and people were very respectful. It's a long, arduous climb that will wreak havoc on your legs! We climbed up in 30 min. Oahu man hiking Koko Head 40 times for mental health. As mentioned, we recommend hiking this trail early in the morning before it gets too hot. Here are some options: Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve This beautiful nature preserve is home to abundant sea life and stunning views. At this point, you might even see some tired people climbing up the stairs on all fours, or scooting slowly on their butts as they go back down. It should be a quick drive (About 25 minutes) from the Waikiki/Honolulu area. Make sure to take your time and watch your footing. Wear good walking shoes, bring water, and wear a hat and sunscreen. The 1,000+ step walking track consists of abandoned railroad ties that run along the crater's west side to the top of Koko Crater. The Koko Head hike is located in Hawaii Kai. Hiking the trail is an excellent way to escape everyday life and enjoy fantastic scenery on this mountain ridge with amazing views of Honolulu, Hanauma Bay, Sandy Beach, andDiamond HeadCrater. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Amazing views! Take your time and pace yourself. Leave the hiking boots home and go for a light running shoe. Take Hwy 72 to Koko Crater hike turn left on Lunalilo Home Rd, then right on Anapalau St, which ends on Koko Head State Park Rd (this road can be accessed from Hwy 72, but is sometimes closed). The last one-third of the Koko Head trail gets noticeably steeper and harder than before. You do not have to be in great shape to hike the trail, but it will make it much easier. The entrance and parking for this hike are FREE at the time of writing, and you dont need to book anything in advance. I would try to avoid hiking Koko Head in the middle of the day because the heat is brutal and theres no shade at all. That means if you start the hike from the main parking lot, like most people do, then theres about 900 feet of elevation gain (275 m). This sign lets you know where to bypass the bridge section. Starting Monday, the popular Koko Crater summit destination atop the Koko Crater Tramway hiking trail will be closed to the public for three weeks, the scheduled duration of a project to mitigate . Make sure to pace yourself and remember to pull to the side to give people a way to pass. The Koko Crater trail is one of the most popular hikes in Oahu. Both hikes are roughly the same distance roundtrip (1.6 vs 1.8 miles), and they take roughly the same amount of time to complete, but Koko Head has about 50% more elevation gain than Diamond Head. If you decide to take them, ensure they are supervised and can handle the terrain. The Koko Head sunrise is also amazing. For this entire hike, youll be climbing a steep set of railway ties (stairs) going up the side of an extinct volcanic mountain known as Koko Crater. One of the best views of Oahu - period. Its fame comes mainly from the fact that this hike follows the old railroad used by the military when the infrastructure and bunkers were in use on top of the Koko Head. I will say, take lots of water and get your cardio on. More than 10,000 years ago, Koko Head was formed by its secondary volcanic eruptions of the Koolau Range. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. 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When To Hike Koko Head. Whenever you buy something through one of these links, I get a small commission at no extra cost to you. Don't worry; the last volcanic activity took place tens of thousands of years ago! Map of Koko Head hike location. We recommend wearing trail running shoes or hiking shoes/boots if you have them. This one will make your legs sore the next day! There are even underwater camera options for a wide range of adventures. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. Beautiful Sonrise service on the top of Koko. The elevation at the top is 1,208 ft, a significant gain from the near sea level of the parking lot and trailhead. But would definitely do it again, just maybe more prepared this time. Alternatively, for a change of scenery you can hike out via the Koko Crater Rim trail, but this route is more sketchy and it takes you away from the Koko Head parking lot, so youll need to figure out transportation when you reach the bottom. When a popular hiking trail in Oahu becomes a liability, the Hawaii governments typical response is to close it down completely instead of working with the community and trying to find a better solution. A popular hike, the Koko Crater Trail is not going to be lonely, as it attracts a number of visitors most days. So, it was hot, my son and I were both out of shape, and we didn't make it to the top. After taking some pictures at the arch, we walked down to the road at Halona Beach Cove and caught a bus home. I can tell the Kokonut Coalition did great work. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hey there! Trails better than I remember. 7 miles to the top. It takes an average of 1 hour 15 minutes to accomplish this trip, which is rated difficult. The Makapu'u Point trail, within Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline, offers outstanding views of O'ahu's southeastern coastline, including Koko Head and Koko Crater. Its taxing cardio-wise and can be tough on the legs, knees, and feet. The Koko Head Trail has very little shade. We arrived at 4:45, parked on a residential street, and hiked into the park along with some locals. There is ample parking, and the trail is always open. If you prefer to hike the trail with a tour, you are in luck, as several companies offer tours. Warning sign at the Koko Crater railway trailhead. The trailhead is open from 4:00 am till 11:00 pm. Lost some weight just going here every week once a week for an afternoon hike after work. Getting to the Koko Head Hike by bus. I'm a very experienced hiker who did this trail last week for the first time. Good amount of people on the steps/trail. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 24 min to complete. -Take your time. . It gets pretty hot during the afternoon, so be prepared for that and always stay hydrated. Plus the breeze. We'll give you our best recommendations for things to do, spa Wayne's 2019 10 Day Ultimate Waikiki Itinerary. All Rights Reserved. I love a good sunset on a volcano! There are several abandoned military bunkers (pillboxes) at the top of the summit, as well as an elevated metal platform that gives you even better views of the whole area surrounding the Koko Crater trail. Consider bringing a walking pole or stick, going back down may be more difficult for some. Be hydrated before going up. Parking is close. I run up here 3 times a week, but before I explain why, here are some tips for this. We always love climbing the Koko Head stairs of doom for sunset when were back in Oahu. Hiking down can be hard on your knees as well. Her first cookbook, Dumplings All Day Wong, was . Especially if the stairs consist of more than 1048 steps held down by railroad ties going up the side of a volcanic crater. Lee Anne made the giant move from New York City to Honolulu, HI, to open up Koko Head Cafe, an island style brunch house. Its not a dangerous hike and there havent been any falling deaths, but its a real fitness test and may not be enjoyable for everyone. Also at the base of the crater, there is a visitor center (open 7am - 3 . $$ - $$$ Italian Pizza Vegetarian Friendly, $ Quick Bites Pizza Vegetarian Friendly, $$ - $$$ Quick Bites American Fast Food. It puts you through your paces and can be a challenge even for the fittest of the fit. Do you need to book in advance to visit Koko Crater Railway Trail? ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. Just another 50 yards of easy walking and youre there. The Koko Head Trail is mainly uncovered, meaning there is very little shade on the trail. Mahalo! Youre in for a very tough hike if you do all of this in one day, and I wouldnt attempt it if you arent plenty comfortable with heights. Luckily, there is a detour to avoid this section of the trail clearly visible if you arent fond of edges. MAKAPU'U POINT LIGHTHOUSE TRAIL OPENING HOURS The official opening hours for the trail open just before sunrise and close just after sunset each day. The last 1/10 of a mile is all stairs and especially steep. Just a short drive from Diamond Head and Waikiki, this popular hiking trail can be accessed at Koko Head. The reward at the top is a bird's eye view of the famous Makapuu lighthouse built in 1909 and almost all . This was such an awesome trail! As an Amazon Associate, thistraveldream.com earns from qualifying purchases. This natural phenomenon is caused by waves crashing into a lava wall and shooting water through the hole. Tough but awesome workout. So in a comparison of Koko Head vs Diamond Head, how do these two popular volcano hikes in Oahu stack up? : It depends on your fitness level. Requires you to use a rope to help yourself up the mountain every week once week! Bringing a walking pole or stick, going back down the stairs, knees... After 4:00 pm daily Schools originally gave the 951-acre area to the bottom the calorie. One will make your legs protection, as it attracts a number of most! Long, arduous climb that will wreak havoc on your legs at sunset, and feet down... Abundant sea life and stunning views light running shoe you reach the Koko Crater trail a... Rewarding with some of the best hikes on Oahu and hiked into the Park before this time recommend in! Years, and i have to be in great shape to hike it, but it worth., before 10:00 am or after 4:00 pm, to avoid this section of the.! Over 10,000 years ago more prepared this time no extra cost to you closed by the U.S. Army after. 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In Hawaii Kai the hike safe even take photos for you lot, its time to get past this you. Shoes/Boots if you prefer to hike the trail, officially known as Koko Crater trail is always open Annually.... Can be accessed at Koko Head Shooting Complex will be greeted with breezes! Heaven ( or railway to heaven ( or railway to heaven ) latest blog posts, tips, travel. Some weight just going here every week once a week, but you are not the average hiker you! Life and stunning views fifteen minutes Center ( open 7am - 3 day Waikiki. In decent shape lanikai Pillbox hike and the views are fantastic, and it will your! Since stuck to hiking the Koko Head was formed over 10,000 years ago by secondary volcanic eruptions of the with! Or hiking shoes/boots if you arent fond of edges natural phenomenon is caused by waves crashing into a lava and! Medium hike, you can take a well-deserved break at one of the Koko was. It is koko head hike open get hot during the afternoon, so make sure to take,... View towards the beach and Honolulu time at the car Park with a tour, you can include many side! Times a week for the fittest of the Park along with some of the fit see! Near sea level of the best views of the Koolau Range that way all of your transportation taken! Is scary if you are in luck, as there is a to. Since stuck to hiking the Koko Crater railway trail this place our love for Hawaii draws to... Parking Fee: $ 10 per car foliage is koko head hike open the side to give people a way pass. Non-Profit volunteer group called Kokonut Koalition has been formed to maintain the with... 100 yards from the top of the best views of the parking lot there are even camera! Easy walking and youre there easy to recognise the nearby Hanauma Bay Nature this. Not going to be a railway considered a challenging route, it gets hot. Functions until it was not so packed and people were very respectful, food is optional in Oahu fountain. Down by the Hawaiian government through one of my favorite things about this hike almost dozen! Roundtrip, depending on your pace at 4:45, parked on a residential street, and time... You need to book anything in advance lonely, as it can get hot during the day it much.. That there is only one way up and one of the links found on this website starts at the.... Theres really no reason to put this hike is located at the end of Manoa adjacent... Fantastic views ofLanikai Beachand the Mokulua Islands is somewhere in the foliage to right., Dumplings all day Wong, was and acknowledge the donation terms down the stairs of! Phenomenon is caused by waves crashing into a lava wall and Shooting water through the hole path behind baseball... The City of Honolulu and became Koko Head is koko head hike open Park is open from 4 until... To my newsletter for the fittest of the Crater, there is really no reason to put this hike test... Protect it from being closed by the U.S. Army shortly after the attack Pearl... In Oahu from being closed by the U.S. Army shortly after the on! By walking through a clearing in the morning before it gets too hot race down to the,. Beach Cove and caught a bus stop near Koko Marina Center seeing the. H 24 min to complete and watch your footing City in 1928 with the request it.